Finding Gratitude When Life Feels Heavy: A Thanksgiving Reflection

As Thanksgiving approaches tomorrow, I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to pause and truly reflect, even when the world feels chaotic, uncertain, or overwhelming. This year hasn’t been easy for many of us. There have been moments where being “thankful” felt like one more thing added to the list, something we should feel but don’t always experience naturally.

But here’s the truth: gratitude isn’t about pretending everything is perfect. It’s about finding those glimpses, the small sparks of hope, love, connection, and meaning, that carry us forward, especially in times of darkness.

In my own life, as I look back on this year’s challenges and transitions, I’m reminded of how much I still have to be grateful for. I’m thankful for the work I get to do every day. Being able to reach people through my practice, my writing, and my conversations is something I never take for granted. It’s a privilege to sit with people in their hardest moments, help them make sense of their stories, and witness their incredible strength.

I’m grateful for my family and friends, for the support, the laughter, and even the tough conversations. I’m grateful for growth, for second chances, and for the quiet moments of clarity that show up when we’re willing to slow down.

Despite everything happening in the world, despite the heaviness, the uncertainty, and the stress, there is still so much to be thankful for. Gratitude doesn’t erase the hard things, but it gives us something solid to stand on while we navigate them.

So this Thanksgiving, I hope you take even just a moment to pause. To breathe. To reflect. Even if you’ve walked through difficult moments this year, try to find that one small thing you can focus on, one thing that reminds you there is still goodness in your life.

And may this one small thing be the beginning of many more to come.

Wishing you warmth, peace, and a meaningful Thanksgiving. 🧡